Thanksgiving Entertaining Tips

Have you ever broken out in a cold sweat 30 minutes before your guests arrive for a Thanksgiving dinner; worrying about the centrepiece, the music, the candles, the turkey?

If this sounds like you, not to worry - you're in good company! We've all been there.

To make things easy (and fun!) this year, we've compiled a list of entertaining and decorating tips from the pros.

Mix and Match: When it comes to dishes and silverware, they're not all created equally. We often feel pressure to have the entire table outfitted with our best. However, today's style at home experts assure us that It's OK to use your best crystal and china along with eccentric serving plates from your travels - consider them to be a layer of interest and a great talking point for guests!

Make Sure Your Centrepiece Isn't At Eye Level: There's nothing more distracting than trying to have conversation with someone across the table over a high candlestick or twig centrepiece! Ensure you cut the candles to half their height (or re-use them from another dinner, already burned down slightly) and trim floral arrangements so they're not obscuring eye contact for your guests. Plus, this is a great way to minimize any accidents over the toast!

Quality Linens Are Ideal: Most interior designers will tell you that while it's OK to improvise with serving platters and dishes, one staple that it's great for any household to have are fine linens - they add an air of quality and elegance to your table, regardless of what you put on it! Consider them the ultimate setting and backdrop for your tablescape. When in doubt? Go with a thick, white linen in the best quality you can afford. If you're feeling adventurous, try a canvas table runner - perfect for lending that rustic feel!

Don't Forget About Scents: Smells are an integral part of the Thanksgiving season - think cloves, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and all things pumpkin spice! Vanilla is another mainstay, however it can be a bit sweet and cloying for some guests. If you have any sensitivities (or guests in attendance that do), consider boiling some water on the stove with a few cinnamon sticks in it - this will naturally infuse your home with a deliciously spicy scent for the holiday.

These are just a few tips to get you started - but overall, don't forget to take a deep breath, relax, and have fun!

This time of year is ALL about the company. And the holidays only come once a year, so make the most of it and enjoy time with your family and friends. And yes - don't forget to have slice of pie for dessert, too - you've worked for it!